Tuesday, June 17, 2008

The council extended a grant writing contract with the Glen Price Group by 12 months for an additional $200,000, bringing the total contract value to $481,000. The extension was approved 6-1, with Councilmember Bates voting no and Mayor McLaughlin abstaining.

The council approved the city's annual operating budget for fiscal year 2008-2009, covering all city operations including police, fire, parks, and public works. The budget sets spending plans starting July 1, 2008.

A $27,500 contract with Pyro Spectaculars North was approved unanimously for the July 3rd fireworks show at Marina Bay Park. The council also approved a $91,250 contract with Neighborhood House of North Richmond for gang prevention services over two years.

The council placed a temporary ban on new massage businesses while reviewing current regulations. The moratorium pauses all new applications but won't affect existing massage establishments.

The council approved one routine item on consent, including hiring a law firm for contract negotiations and employee training for $32,000. They also called the municipal election for November 4, 2008 and supported renewing the West Contra Costa school district parcel tax.